X-Press Pearl’s owners contradict media
Reports that the X-Press Pearl was denied port entry prior to fire are incorrect, says owner.
The owners of the fire-stricken containership, X-Press Pearl, have said that reports in the media that the vessel was denied entry to India and Qatar are incorrect.
The 2,743-teu vessel made applications to ports in both countries to offload a container leaking nitric acid but was advised that neither haven had facilities to deal with the leaking acid.
“Reports that the vessel was denied entry into Hazira port in India and Hamad port in Qatar are incorrect,” X-Press added.
“The ship underwent discharge and loading operations in both ports before continuing on its planned journey to Colombo.”
The latest footage from the Sri Lankan Air Force shows the blaze has diminished, but is not entirely extinguished. Flames can still be seen amidst the blackened superstructure.
Situation Update: Latest videos of the "X-PRESS PEARL" vessel. The flames seem to be subsiding. Footage was captured by the SLAF Bell 212 this evening (27 May 2021). pic.twitter.com/5Mm9L8qTGD
